How to Make Filters for Fish Ponds Using a Used Paint Bucket

Introduction

• Host: Fajar Fahlevi
• Topic: Creating filters for fish ponds (Koi ponds) using a 20 kg used paint bucket.

Materials Needed

• Used paint bucket (20 kg capacity)
• 1/2 inch tap (for drainage)
• 1 inch pipe (for output)
• Filter media:
  • Zeolite
  • JapMate
  • White foam filter (commonly used for aquariums)
  • Bioball filter media
  • Wood charcoal or activated charcoal
• Stones (for base)
• Foam filters (for sealing)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Bucket

   • Make 2 holes in the bottom of the paint bucket:
     • One for drainage (1/2 inch tap)
     • One for output (1 inch pipe)

2. Setting Up the Filter Media

   • Base Layer:
     • Add zeolite to the bucket as the base.
     • Place stones as a mat to prevent falling through.
   • Input Pipe:
     • Insert the input pipe from the pool, ensuring it’s designed to allow water to flow properly.
   • First Layer of Filter Media:
     • Use JapMate as the first filter media. Fill it tightly to avoid gaps.
   • Sealing Gaps:
     • Use foam filters to seal gaps and prevent dirt from rising.
   • Second Layer of Filter Media:
     • Add a layer of white foam filter.
   • Third Layer of Filter Media:
     • Add bioball filter media for good bacteria cultivation.
   • Sealing Again:
     • Use more foam filter to seal this layer snugly.
   • Fourth Layer of Filter Media:
     • Add wood charcoal or activated charcoal (cleaned before use).
     • Optionally place in a net for easier cleanup.
   • Final Layer:
     • Add another layer of zeolite stone for ballast.
     • Reinforce with bioball for additional bacterial housing.

3. Final Assembly

   • Ensure all edges are tightly sealed to prevent dirt from entering.
   • The filter media setup is complete at this point.

Testing the Filter

• Connect to a Yamano Pump WP-103 for a small koi pond (2.5 x 0.5 x 0.5 meters).
• Insert the pump's pipe into the filter media.
• Monitor the output through the 1 inch pipe to prevent overflow.
• Results will be evaluated after 1 week to 1 month to check for optimal performance.

Conclusion

• Summary of the DIY filter process.
• Encouragement to like, comment, and subscribe for more tutorials.

Closing

• Closing remarks and farewell from the host.